James Colyer facts for kids
James Colyer was an English politician who lived in the 1500s. He was born around 1560 and passed away on 14 July 1597.
Who Was James Colyer?
James Colyer was a politician from England during the time of Queen Elizabeth I. He played a role in the government of his country. Understanding his life helps us learn about how people lived and worked in England long ago.
His Family and Land
The Colyer family was well-known in the area around Stone, Staffordshire. James's father received a lot of land. This happened when the king took over lands that used to belong to monasteries.
When James inherited these lands in 1586, he became the owner of large estates. These included places like Darlaston, Stone, Yerlett, and Hilderstone. This was about 6,500 acres of land.
However, James started selling parts of this land soon after he got it. Within a year, he sold many houses and a lot of land. When he died, his nine-year-old son inherited only a few smaller properties. These included the house of Newhall in Stone.
Becoming a Politician
James Colyer became a Member (MP) in 1586. An MP is someone who represents a certain area in the country's government. They help make laws and decisions for the nation.
He represented the town of Newcastle-under-Lyme. This was likely because of his connection to Ralph Smythe. Ralph Smythe was the Mayor of Newcastle-under-Lyme at the time. He was also married to James Colyer's sister.
James Colyer did not hold many other important jobs. However, he was made a "freeman" of Newcastle-under-Lyme in 1586. Being a freeman meant he had special rights and privileges in the town.
